Sukhothai (Thai สุโขทัย) is one of the northern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phrae, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Kamphaeng Phet, Tak and Lampang.

Sukhothai can be translated as Dawn of Happiness.

Geography

Sukhothai is located in the valley of the Yom river. The Ramkhamhaeng national park in the south of the province and the Sri Satchanalai in the north-west both protect the mountainous forest areas of the province.

History

The province is most famous for the historic city of Sukhothai, the capital of the Sukhothai kingdom. It is located about 12 km from New Sukhothai city. Not far from Sukhothai is the Si Satchanalai historical park , a second city of the same time.

Symbols

The provincial seal shows King Ramkhamhaeng the Great sitting on the Managkhasila Asana throne. Under King Ramkhamhaeng the kingdom of Sukhothai did flourished most. Provincial tree is Afzelia xylocarpa ; provincial flower is the Lotus (Nymphaea lotus).

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided in 9 districts (Amphoe). These are further subdivided into 86 communes (tambon) and 782 villages (mubaan).

External links

• Website of the Province
• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide